About 20% of the U.S. population has abused prescription meds. Learn more about what defines an addiction and which drugs people get addicted to.
Do you or someone you love have a problem with substance abuse? Explore the warning signs and how to get the best help.
WebMD Substance Abuse and Addiction Health Center: Find in-depth information about causes, symptoms, risks, prevention, and treatment for drug and alcohol abuse.
Read about drug abuse and addiction definition, screening test, and symptoms. Drug abuse and addiction disorder is a self-destructive pattern of using a substance that causes distress and problems...
What is fentanyl? ; Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times more potent.1,2 · It is a prescription drug that is also made and used illegally. Like morphine, it is a medicine that is typically used to treat patients with severe pain, especially after surgery.3 It is also sometimes used to treat patients with chronic pain who are physically tolerant to other opioids.4 Tolerance occurs when you need a higher and/or more frequent amount of a drug ...
Changes in personality or behavior · Bloodshot eyes or other unexplained physical changes · Changes in friends or routines · Disregard for personal hygiene · Slurred speech, trembles or shakes · Unusual spending habits or requests for money
Featured ; Provides scientific information about the disease of drug addiction, including the many harmful consequences of drug... ; Dr. Curtis uses AI, social media, and smartphone sensors to gain a better understanding of substance use and misuse ; What’s really in bath salts, N-bombs, and synthetic opioids? What are the health risks of taking these drugs?
When you’re addicted to drugs, you can’t resist the urge to use them, no matter how much harm the drugs may cause. The earlier you get treatment for drug addiction (also called substance use disorder) the more likely you are to avoid some of the more dire consequences of the disease. Drug addiction isn’t about just heroin, cocaine, or other illegal drugs. You can get addicted to alcohol, nicotine, sleep and anti-anxiety medications, and other legal substances. ...
A person’s environment includes many different influences, from family and friends to economic status and general quality of life. Factors such as peer pressure, physical and sexual abuse, early exposure to drugs, stress, and parental guidance can greatly affect a person’s likelihood of drug use and addiction. ...
Drug use and misuse can affect many aspects of your mind and body. We will look at common ones to be aware of, including when pregnant, and how to get help.